Ischia & Naples 🍋
"Thermal volcanic spas and the ruins of Pompeii."
Ischia is famous for its high-end thermal resorts which are wonderful in late autumn. From here, you are a short ferry ride from the historical weight of Naples and the ruins of Pompeii.
A perfect blend of gritty urban history in Naples and luxurious thermal relaxation on the volcanic island of Ischia.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 · Greek Origins and Baroque Naples
Morning — Arrive in Naples and check into a boutique hotel near the Lungomare. Start at the Naples National Archaeological Museum (MANN) to see the Farnese collection and Pompeii artifacts.
Afternoon — Walk the Spaccanapoli, the narrow street bisecting the historic center. Visit the Veiled Christ at Sansevero Chapel with pre-booked tickets to admire the marble craftsmanship.
Evening — Savor an authentic Pizza Margherita at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, followed by a stroll through the brightly lit Piazza del Plebiscito.
💡 Book Sansevero Chapel tickets at least 2 weeks in advance as they sell out daily.
Day 2 · Views from the Vomero Hill
Morning — Take the funicular up to the Vomero Hill. Visit Castel Sant'Elmo for the best 360-degree views of Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples.
Afternoon — Explore the eerie 'Cemetery of the Fountains' (Cimitero delle Fontanelle), an ancient ossuary carved into the hillside. Enjoy a gelato while walking along the seafront (Via Partenope).
Evening — Dine in the Spanish Quarters (Quartieri Spagnoli) at a traditional trattoria like Trattoria da Nennella for a high-energy local experience.
💡 Try a 'Fiocco di Neve' pastry at Poppella while in the Sanità district.
Day 3 · Crossing to the Green Island
Morning — Check out of your Naples hotel and head to the Molo Beverello port to catch a hydrofoil to the lush volcanic island of Ischia.
Afternoon — Check into your resort in Ischia Porto or Ischia Ponte. Spend the afternoon exploring the iconic Aragonese Castle, connected to the island by a stone bridge.
Evening — Enjoy a seafood dinner overlooking the harbor at Ischia Porto, where the local specialty is actually 'Coniglio all'Ischitana' (Ischian rabbit).
💡 Take the Alilauro or SNAV hydrofoil for the fastest crossing (approx. 50-60 mins).
Day 4 · Gardens and Coastal Charm
Morning — Visit the Giardini La Mortella, a stunning tropical botanical garden created by composer William Walton and his wife.
Afternoon — Head to the village of Sant'Angelo, a car-free fishing village. Browse boutique shops and relax on the Maronti Beach nearby.
Evening — Relax at a coastal wine bar in Forio, watching the 'Green Flash'—a local atmospheric phenomenon seen at sunset.
💡 Use the island's 'Circolare' (CD or CS) buses to navigate; they are cheap and frequent.
Day 5 · Thermal Wellness Day
Morning — Spend a full 'resort day' at Poseidon Thermal Gardens. Soak in over 20 different thermal pools ranging in temperature, set against a private beach.
Afternoon — Return to the hotel for a final spa treatment or a mud bath, then enjoy a slow afternoon at the rocky coves of Sorgeto where hot springs meet the sea.
Evening — A celebratory final dinner at a hillside restaurant like La Locanda di Vito for panoramic views of the entire bay.
💡 Bring a swim cap, as they are mandatory in most thermal pools in Ischia.
Day 6 · Farewell to the Mediterranean
Morning — Take the morning hydrofoil back from Ischia to Naples. Conduct last-minute souvenir shopping for local ceramics or Limoncello.
Afternoon — Grab a final Neapolitan espresso and a sfogliatella pastry before heading to Naples International Airport (NAP).
Evening — Departure from Naples.
💡 Allow extra time at the port during peak season (June-August).